Jan. 2, 2010
Wind chill. Two words that may not mean a lot to those in Australia and Arizona right now. But if you live in most of the northern U.S. or Canada, you know the effect. What could otherwise be a beautiful day with acceptable temperatures becomes a bone-chilling, face-freezing, Arctic-like experience.
I was a little disappointed that we reached the high temperature for today at some point before I got up at 7:30 a.m. It seems the mild Chinook departed early and temperatures started to fall. When I headed out with Max for a walk at 9:30 a.m., the temperature had fallen from 3C to 0, on it’s way to –5 this afternoon and colder in the evening.
Now, for those of you still living in an area that trails the REST OF THE WORLD in adopting the metric system, I extend my condolences. For a quick reference, in degrees Celsius 0 is freezing and 100 is boiling, generally speaking. Altitude affects the numbers a bit no matter what thermometer you use. Compare that to 32F for freezing and 212 for boiling. Hmmmm. While deserving of comment, that can wait for another day.
I’ve lived in western Canada since I was 16. You’d think I’d know better. But, no-o-o-o! I see it’s 0 and think, hey, that’s not so bad. Maybe I don’t even need a toque. Yeah, right! Glad I opted to take it with me. The breeze was just strong enough to make 0 feel like –10C. Wind chill is like having Mother Nature slap your face repeatedly until tears well up, but you can’t blink them away before they freeze into little crystal jewels clinging to your eyelashes.
When Max and I got home about 30 minutes later, the temperature had dropped to –9. Throw in a wind chill and it’s damn cold. Good times!
Health
About a week or so ago, I was turning everything off before heading to bed when I saw a program listing for Dr. Oz. The whole show was dedicated to men’s health. Knowing I wanted a revolution for 2010, I sat back down and watched as the good doctor looked at things medical and the impact on men.
WARNING: The following contains graphic language that may make some people squirm. Reader discretion is advised.
Dr. Oz looked at erectile dysfunction and what it could be telling a man about his health. I know it’s fun to make jokes about ED, but folks, it’s no laughing matter. An inability to attain or sustain a firm erection can be a sign of plaque build up in the arteries. The proper flow of blood is necessary for a lasting erection. Plaque build up can impede the flow of blood and, while the impact on a man’s sex life can be troubling, it can also be an early warning sign of a potential heart attack.
Guys, if it’s an issue go ahead with the Viagra or the Cialis, but talk to your doctor about other possible implications. Gals, if you love your guy and he’s not addressing an ED situation, kick his butt all the way to the doctor’s office if necessary. What’s better? A potentially embarrassing conversation with a medical professional, or death?
Dr. Oz also looked at weight problems for men and the need to have colonoscopy if you are 50, or if you are 40 with a family history of colon cancer. I think I’ll save those for tomorrow. I found it interesting as I already have a colonoscopy scheduled. Had one about 12 years ago and I’m past due. If you’re a male over 40 and you haven’t had one, all I can say is up yours – and I mean that in the nicest way.
Until tomorrow, ciao for now.
P.S.: For a quick, inspirational spiritual message, check out Unity Hawaii.
Photo: Prepping spaghetti for tonight's dinner.
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